Pharmacists in NSW may soon treat more minor health conditions including ear infections, nausea and acne as the state government grapples with a shortage of GPs.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the expanded scope of practice for local chemists could come into force by 2026, following an evaluation of a trial program.
The move is aimed at helping to deal with a shortage of GPs in NSW, part of a national problem forecast to record a shortfall of 1,900 GPs across Australia by 2028.
Under the flagged changes, NSW pharmacists would be able to treat middle ear infections, minor wounds, nausea and vomiting and some gastro-oesophageal problems.
They would also be empowered to treat mild to moderate acne and mild acute musculoskeletal pain, the government says.
Booking to see a GP is becoming more difficult due to a statewide shortage. (Julian Smith/AAP PHOTOS)
Mr Park said the plan aimed to alleviate pressure on GPs, given people were "often waiting days or even weeks before they can find an appointment".
"By empowering pharmacists to undertake consultations on more conditions, we can relieve the pressure on GPs and end the wait times," he said in a statement on Friday.
"People should be able to access treatment as and when they need it, and the expansion of this important initiative will improve access to care."
Pharmacy Guild of Australia NSW branch president David Heffernan said the change would mean patients were not forced to go to hospital "for a simple ear infection, just because their GP can't see them".
The proposal comes after a Northern Territory plan to give pharmacists the power to treat 21 conditions, including school sores, shingles, asthma, swimmer's ear and hypertension.
The Royal Australian College of GPs has opposed the NT plan, announced in July, claiming it undermines Therapeutic Goods Administration rules designed to protect patients.
The NSW Liberal opposition has been contacted for comment.